Fuel Subsidy: Strike Grinds Nigeria To A Halt

While the demonstrations that trailed the removal of the subsidy on petrol in Nigeria entered the seventh day, the Nigerian Labour Congress commenced nationwide strike on Monday.

The strike took its toll on economic activities in most states of the country as offices and shops were closed. Protesters also took to the streets making bonfires and blocking roads.

In Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, fires were set up at every junction while major roads were blocked. Some of the major streets were also turned to football fields as people played street soccer all around Yemetu, Beere and Ring Road. Labour Unions under the NLC were also seen marching through the city. The few vehicles that passed were compelled to give petrol to the protesters to fuel the bonfires. Police officers, including the Commissioner of Police were seen patrolling the streets. As at 21:00 hrs, protesters were still on the streets.

In Lagos, protesters marched from all over the state and converged at the Gani Fawehinmi Park, Ojota. There were reports of clashes around Ogba and a protester, Ademola Aderinto was shot dead. The Commissioner of Police in Lagos later announced that the policeman who shot the protester has been apprehended and he is being interrogated.

In Akure, Ondo State, protesters converged at the City Centre and from there marched to other parts of the town. The protesters who carried various placards and a coffin demanded the resignation of President Goodluck Jonathan.

The protests in Kano State have led to the imposition of a curfew by the state government. The government claimed that hoodlums were “taking advantage” of the protest.Meanwhile, seven people are feared dead in Kano.